Following three hours of negotiations held at Trump's private residence, he described the meeting as "wonderful" and a "magnificent conversation," which, according to him, brought the end of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine closer.
Main Topics of Negotiation
Before the meeting, Vladimir Zelensky emphasized that he expected "one of the most active diplomatic days of the year" and hoped for progress in 2025.
Trump reported that the parties agreed on about 95% of the terms of the peace agreement; however, the question of the status of Donbas remains open and requires further discussion.
Zelensky noted that for Ukraine, obtaining security guarantees is more important than resolving territorial issues, adding that their team will continue working with European politicians to achieve this result in the coming weeks.
Trump also expressed the opinion that a deal regarding the territories should be reached as soon as possible, highlighting Ukraine's bravery and the necessity of ending the conflict.
He even expressed his willingness to address the Ukrainian parliament, to which Zelensky diplomatically replied that they are "always happy" to see him.
Russia's Position
Putin considers the issue of Donbas to be central. In a phone conversation with Trump, he emphasized that Kyiv must make a "bold and responsible decision" regarding this region.
Putin's aide, Yuri Ushakov, noted that a decision on Donbas should be made without delay, given the current situation on the front.
According to him, Putin and Trump intend to reconnect after the negotiations in Florida.
Expectations from the Negotiations
Both presidents expect that clear decisions capable of stopping the war will emerge within a few weeks. However, the issue of Donbas remains a stumbling block for both sides. Zelensky emphasizes that this issue should be resolved only by the people of Ukraine.
This creates a complicated situation, as Ukraine demands a ceasefire to prepare for voting, while Russia refuses this, and Putin has already stated the possibility of resolving the issue by military means.
Zelensky added that any points of the peace agreement could be put to a referendum or considered by parliament.
Nevertheless, Trump noted that unforeseen difficulties could arise that would affect the outcomes of the agreement. He emphasized that clarity should emerge soon and expects a trilateral meeting involving the USA, Ukraine, and Russia.
It is also worth noting that, according to FT, Trump's support for Zelensky was insufficient, and the US president once again took a position of equal distance between Ukraine and Russia, emphasizing that both leaders are striving for peace.
Reactions from European Leaders
- Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, noted on social media X that Europe is ready to support Ukraine and the USA to ensure security.
- The spokesperson for the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom emphasized the importance of security guarantees and the necessity of ending the war.
- From the Russian side, the reaction was presented in a post by the special representative of the president, who expressed gratitude to Trump for his efforts towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
